Over 90 percent of the world's bergamot harvest comes from Calabria. The region at the tip of Italy's boot, with its Mediterranean climate, stable temperatures, and roughly 800 kilometers of coastline offers ideal conditions for this exceptionally aromatic citrus fruit to thrive. It comes as no surprise, then, that the Mediterranean Hospitality Group has made it the star of their summer cocktail menu, with two bergamot-based drinks and a third that plays with the lemon aromas so characteristic of southern Italy.
Bergamotto Spritz: Fresh, Floral, and Spiced
At the Capovaticano Resort Thalasso Spa , the Bergamotto Spritz is the signature drink of the Stromboli Bar. This intensely aromatic aperitif stands apart from other classics in terms of flavor: less sweet than an Aperol Spritz and less bitter than a Negroni. Floral, fresh, and lightly spiced, it is a perfect companion for a warm summer day overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea. For preparation, bartender Giuseppe recommends: "Fill a large wine glass or tall tumbler generously with ice. Pour in 60 ml of bergamot liqueur first, then 90 ml of Prosecco, and finally about 30 ml of sparkling water stirring gently to preserve the effervescence." The drink is served with a thin slice of bergamot and, as Giuseppe adds with a smile, "with a Mediterranean smile." In Calabria, the liqueur is traditionally made from fresh bergamots. Italicus works well as an alternative, but those who want to experience the real thing should make the trip to Calabria.
Bergamotto Martini: An Elegant Reinterpretation
A fresh and pleasantly tart variation is offered by the Sunset Terrace Bar at the Baia del Sole Resort with the Bergamotto Martini. The recipe is based on Calabrian Ginberg, which captures the intense aromas of bergamot. Italicus adds a floral note, while white Martini, refined with a hint of chili, Calabria's famous "red gold," lends the cocktail depth and character. Bartender Francesco explains: "Fill a mixing glass or shaker with ice cubes and add 50 ml of bergamot gin along with 15 ml of dry vermouth and 10 ml of bergamot liqueur. Stir gently for about 20 to 30 seconds and strain through a fine sieve into a chilled Martini glass." To finish, a strip of bergamot peel is expressed over the drink to release its essential oils and complete the aroma.
The 008: Villa Paola's Aromatic Secret Weapon
In the Lounge Bar at Villa Paola , a cocktail is served that even James Bond would appreciate: the 008. Bartender Davide combines 60 ml of Gin Principum, a dry gin with juniper and citrus notes, with 10 ml of extra dry vermouth infused with grilled olives. A splash of lemon oil rounds out the drink. "This intense cocktail is made with 60 ml of Gin Principum, a dry gin with juniper and citrus notes. To that, add 10 ml of extra dry vermouth infused with grilled olives. Finish with a splash of lemon oil and the 008 is ready," Davide explains. The result is a citrus-forward, spiced cocktail with balsamic and herbal notes, complex, Mediterranean, and utterly distinctive.